Identify 10 new ways for me to save money.

Eat in most of the time. I have only recently discovered just how much I spend while “on the go.” I am totally guilty of picking up food, salads, paninis, sushi… I pass places constantly that are so convenient, delicious, and even healthy. The only drawback is the cost. So I have re-evaluated my grocery list and meals and simply reminded myself how much I love preparing food.

I also made some oatmeal/granola-type-squares that I will keep in my bag for a quick fix.

Also: make coffee at home!!! or bring tea bags. If I do go out for coffee, I will completely ignore the baked goods. 3$ for a rice krispy square?!! It’s just not worth it!

This will save a ton.

By the way, eggs, potatoes, rice… good staples that are filling, yummy, and cheap! just add herbs and veggies.

I have so many magazines. Some of them I deem necessary; the rest… maybe not so much. So I am not renewing any subscriptions. I only subscribed to them because they were cheap. and because mail is fun.

I will still buy the odd mag, but:
It must have more than one article that is interesting.
It must be something I will read more than once.
I should check it out online first, where the info may already be available, for free.
If possible, I should buy at a place that offers discounts, or at an independant shop, just because it’s better.

I have to be more deliberate and careful with gift giving. Sometimes, I buy more than needed. This is not necessarily because I’m extra nice; it’s the just-in-case factor.

This year I have also been working on more hand-crafted gifts, simpler ideas, beautiful local goods… made from scratch cookies! I think people really appreciate the effort and the move away from holiday mall madness. My bank account will thank me too.

I have decided to tackle one entry at a time. This week, it’s da bills. It’s time to examine and reprioritize.

First, the credit cards. Would like to get a good mastercard: more versatile than amex, better bonuses and fees than visa. Also need a better system to pay bills right when I get ‘em.

Second, the debit card. Only to be used for emergencies. Paying with cash (withdrawn from my bank at the beginning of each week) will help me stay on budget. I currently pay extra to waive the fees, but with my new plan, I won’t need to. Save $13 a month.

Third, the cell phone. I am going to reduce it to bare minimum, as I rarely use my phone. Save $10 a month.

Fourth, the bus pass. I will switch to bus tickets, as I do not take the bus enough to warrant an actual pass. Save $13 a month.

The rest of my monthly fees are pretty stubborn. I may reconsider my gym membership… But, with the above very very small changes, it already amounts to at least $36 a month, or $432 a year. Wow.